A great day was had by Transplant Team Ireland in Kilcullen Sunday morning.
With athletes and supporters present, James Nolan (of the infamous and much loved Nolans Butchers) welcomed all to his native Kilcullen and revealed the new Team Kit! And what a super Team Kit. Team Captain Harry Ward then spoke about the upcoming Transplant Games in Oxford at the end of the month. Harry also fondly remembered members of Transplant Team Ireland who have passed since the last Games and the families of 4 of those who had passed away were present to pick up a Team Top in honour of their loved ones. They were of the loss for the whole 'transplant family' and it was poignantly noted that they were to be 'honorary team members' in Oxford.
Following that, the guest speaker Michael Carruth spoke to the assembled group and relived his journey to Olympic Glory! It was inspirational to hear him speak of his passion, drive and unrelenting ambition to win the Olympic medal.... the anniversary of which is 8th August coincidentally. His advice included 'don't give up' after failure, or when everything seems to be against you and repeated Don't believe naysayers who tell you you can't achieve what you want....wise words indeed for all of us! He then presented each athlete with their Team Top and wished them every success in their endeavours.
Thanks to Michael Carruth for sharing his journey to Olympic Gold and providing advice as we look towards Oxford. A special thanks to James, Emma and Andrew James Nolan for organising everything today. It was great to catch up with everyone and remember those who we lost over the last few years.
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From Left to Right Back row:Mick Dwyer (Dublin), Peter Heffernan (Dublin), James Nolan, (Kildare), Team Captain & Athlete Harry Ward (Dublin), Ron Grainger (Dublin), Charlie Ryan (Cork), Mike Keohane (Cork)
Front Row (L to R): John Moran (Dublin),Sheila Gregan (Tipperary), Marie O Connor (Clare), Amanda O Neill Coyne (Cork), Gordon Ryan (Roscommon)
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